One Big + One Little + One Pumpkin = Three Big Smiles

This time of year most grocery stores and roadside markets have pumpkins. Of course, it’s even more fun to go to a local farm or "pumpkin patch," but no matter where you find them, try to get two ... one for you and one for your Little Brother or Little Sister.

You’ll need some newspaper to contain the mess, a bowl for the seeds, a big spoon for scooping and scraping (or you can use your hands), a knife for carving, and a flashlight or other safe source of light to make the face glow in the dark.

Start by cutting the top of the pumpkin off. Angle the knife inward while you cut so your "lid" won’t fall back into the pumpkin. Then scoop, scoop, scoop until all the seeds are out. When you’re done scooping, you can lightly salt and roast the pumpkin seeds for a tasty, nutritious snack.

What kind of face do you want?  Friendly, scary, silly?  Round eyes, square, or triangle?  There’s really no limit except the imagination. Younger children will need help with the cutting, so they can draw the face and you can cut it for them. Older kids and teenagers can cut safely with your supervision.

While you’re carving, think of stories you can tell. Do you remember any ghost stories from when you were a child?  Any happy fall or Halloween memories or songs you can share?  Ask your Little Brother or Little Sister what his or her favorite October activities are.

When you’re finished, wait until dark and light your carved pumpkin from the inside. Beautiful!  And a beautiful October memory for you and your Little.

Mentoring doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. It’s really about having fun, providing guidance and making memories. To help Big Brothers Big Sisters ensure more children will have this opportunity, please donate or volunteer today.